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An Update from the AMS Vocations Office

By: Denise Hummel, Director of Seminarian Support

With social-distancing and “stay at home” orders becoming part of our new norm, we are all longing for sacramental celebrations. Many first holy Communions and confirmations have been postponed as we patiently await our chapels reopening. Another sacrament, holy orders, is often held in the months of May and June. I recently corresponded with Ms. Faith Berard, from the AMS Vocations Office, to inquire about the upcoming scheduled ordinations.

Faith shares:   “As of now, almost all of the ordinations for our co-sponsored men are continuing on the dates originally planned. Most likely, they will no longer be open to the public though, to adhere to social distancing guidelines.”  

Each co-sponsored seminarian is first ordained as a transitional deacon at their home diocese.   They then enter their final year of formation, at the seminary,  before receiving holy orders to the priesthood.  Once ordained a priest, they spend three additional years at their home diocese, receiving the experience they need to then begin their journey as an active duty priest. 

For the month of May, the following men are preparing for the diaconate and/or priesthood: 

Diaconate

  • May 16: Adam Sanchez – Archdiocese of New Orleans
  • May 30: Callan Sweeney – Diocese of Austin

Priesthood

  • May 30: Joseph Batlz – Diocese of San Angelo 
  • May 30: James Dvorak – Diocese of Victoria 

Let us be reminded as our shepherd, Archbishop Timothy Broglio shares, “these men are answering a call within a call” to serve both God and country.  May we always pray for more vocations and pray for all priests  (active duty, retired, and contract) who serve our military communities. 

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